Literary notes about considerate (AI summary)
The term considerate appears throughout literature as both a commendation of virtuous, thoughtful behavior and a subtle commentary on social norms. In classic works, it is often employed to praise characters’ readiness to think of others—Dante’s poetic exhortation in his immortal verse ([1]) and Dickens’s endearing portrayals of individuals who act with genuine regard for family and friends ([2], [3]) illustrate this traditional use. Meanwhile, the adjective extends into discussions of etiquette and propriety, as seen in Emily Post’s guidance on social conduct ([4], [5]), and is sometimes used in a reflective or even ironic mode when contrasting inner character with external behavior ([6]). Across these varied contexts—from moral philosophy to everyday social interactions—the word underscores both the ideal of selflessness and the intricate balance between personal autonomy and communal responsibility.
- Considerate la vostra semenza: fatti non foste a viver come bruti, ma per seguir virtute e canoscenza".
— from Divina Commedia di Dante: Inferno by Dante Alighieri - ‘Well, my dear,’ said Mrs. Nickleby, trying to be pleased, ‘now isn’t this thoughtful and considerate of your uncle?
— from Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens - ‘It’s my great aim and end to be considerate, sir,’ rejoined Squeers.
— from Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens - The Considerate Guest Courtesy demands that you, when you are a guest, shall show neither annoyance nor disappointment—no matter what happens.
— from Etiquette by Emily Post - It is then considerate for her to offer him a "lift," but it is equally proper for her to thank him for waiting and drive off alone.
— from Etiquette by Emily Post - Before, he had taken great pride in how considerate he was but now it hardly occurred to him that he had become so thoughtless about the others.
— from Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka